The Persons Living with Aids (PLWA) Network is hosting a block party from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. to encourage people to get tested for HIV, know their status, and get linked to care and treatment during National HIV Testing Day, on Friday, June 27, 2025.

The community-wide event will be at The PLWA Network in Saskatoon and will have a free BBQ with entertainment, including a Pie-in-the-Face fundraiser.

Individuals wishing to KNOW THEIR STATUS will be provided with rapid HIV test kits and the PLWA will have Peers on hand to support through the process.

The PLWA Network says knowing your status is key in the prevention of spreading HIV, early diagnosis leads to better health outcomes, prevents transmission and testing is the first step in accessing care, treatment and support. If a rapid test comes back positive, support is provided in that moment and services and care are set up for the individual.

The rapid HIV test kits are provided to help people learn their status because there is a stigma attached to HIV testing and a stigma attached to people who have AIDS.

The PLWA Network says many people are afraid to go to doctor clinics because of fear of people seeing them, and their doctor knowing they have HIV, so having the rapid tests available helps them have anonymity.

Executive Director of The PLWA Network Christine Daniels says, “HIV is not a death sentence. If you get on your medication, you can live a long, healthy life. If you stay on your medication, you become undetectable and when you’re undetectable you’re untransmittable.”